Beatrice Community Hospital Hospice volunteers were the guests of honor at a recent Volunteer Recognition Luncheon.

"Volunteers fill many different roles and this is an opportunity to thank each of them for their contributions," said BCH Hospice Coordinator Paul Jensen.

Volunteers provide direct service to patients and families in the form of companionship and support and provide special memories by creating keepsakes such as "Memory Bears" made from a loved one's clothing item.

During the luncheon, information is shared on new program initiatives, but most importantly, Jensen said, the luncheon is a time to celebrate the volunteers' efforts on behalf of BCH Hospice, a community-based not-for-profit program.

BCH Hospice volunteers honored at this year's luncheon were: Marie Day, Esther Dell, Kathryn Dostal, Mildred Fossler, Bill Goossen, Jan Goracke, Letha Hamm, Vonnie Higgins, Shelly Luehring, Janet Murray, Darlene Scheideler, Vance Ulmer, Pamela Vitale and Kay Wiens.